Conditionals: Second Conditional
The second conditional expresses hypothetical or imaginary situations in the present or future — things that are unlikely, impossible, or contrary to reality.
Structure
If + past simple, would + base verb
If I had more time, I would learn to play the piano.
If she knew the answer, she would tell us.
If we lived in Paris, we would visit the Louvre every week.
When to use it
- Imaginary / hypothetical present or future situations
- Situations that are impossible: If I were a bird, I would fly south.
- Advice: If I were you, I would apologise.
- Unlikely futures: If she won the lottery, she would travel the world.
'Were' vs. 'was' in the if-clause
In formal and standard English, were is used for all subjects — including I, he, she, it. In informal speech, was is often used for singular subjects.
If I were taller, I would play basketball.
If she were here, she would know what to do.
If it were possible, I would change the past.
Variations in the main clause
The main clause can use could or might instead of would.
If she practised more, she could become a professional.
If we left now, we might catch the train.
First vs. second conditional
| First conditional | Second conditional |
|---|---|
| Real / likely future | Hypothetical / unlikely / imaginary |
| If it rains, I'll take an umbrella. | If it snowed in July, I'd be amazed. |
Don't use 'would' in the if-clause: If I would have time ✗ → If I had time ✓. The if-clause uses past simple, never would.
Tip: 'If I were you' is the most common second conditional phrase used to give advice. Always use were, not was, in this fixed expression.